Top 13 Castles around Ermelo
Best castles around Ermelo are situated in the Gelderland province of the Netherlands, a region characterized by its diverse landscapes including forests, heathlands, and agricultural settlements. The area's history is marked by significant estates and historical sites, offering insights into medieval and later periods. Ermelo provides a setting where historical architecture is often integrated with natural beauty, making it a destination for exploring cultural heritage. Visitors can find a blend of historical significance and natural surroundings.
Best castles around Ermelo
- The most popular castles is Staverden Castle, a castle that features a brewery and brasserie within its grounds. This estate has a long history, with the current building dating from 1905, and includes beautifully restored gardens and ancient burial mounds.
- Another must-see spot is Oldenaller Castle, a historical site. This almost square castle from 1655 was later modernized in 1848, transforming its classicist exterior into a romantic, white-plastered design with a characteristic middle tower.
- Visitors also love De Vanenburg Castle, a castle that now functions as a hotel and restaurant. A monument named "Sarah" is located in front of the castle, commemorating Jewish men who were interned there in 1942.
- Ermelo is known for historical castles, some of which now serve as hotels or event venues, and estates with extensive gardens. These sites offer a variety of experiences, from exploring historical architecture to enjoying modern amenities within ancient settings.
- The castles around Ermelo are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 1300 upvotes and over 490 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: June 26, 2026
Staverden Castle
Highlight • Castle
The estate and castle have a long history. The counts of Gelderland (later dukes) probably had a court in Staverden as early as the 12th century. In 1299 Count Reinald I obtained city rights from the Emperor. But it never came to a real urban development.
It was probably never the intention that Staverden became a real city. This is apparent from the wording of the granting of the city rights. A research report into the cultural history of Staverden states that the rights granted to Staverden differ greatly from the city rights granted to Gelderland cities at the time. It is stipulated that, in addition to the 'free people', serfs and ministerials or servants may also live there. It can be concluded that we should not regard medieval Staverden as a regular city (to be founded), but as an agricultural settlement with certain legal characteristics of a city. The confirmation of the rights is probably related to the fact that the Count of Gelre is busy increasing his influence on the Veluwe at that time.
Early times
The six preserved burial mounds on the west and east edges of the stream valley show that people were already present in the Staverden area around 4000 years ago. The valley and its surroundings are continuously adapted to the needs of the residents. The stream was used to power water mills. In the stream valley, loam was extracted to bake bricks. Farms were built with fields and large plots of coppice.
Nineteenth and twentieth centuries
From the 19th century, Staverden developed rapidly. Land was reclaimed, roads were constructed or improved and two new farms were built. The aim of the owners was to make Staverden self-sufficient again as a modern agricultural and forestry company, as the estate had functioned for centuries.
Translated by Google •
Tip by
De Vanenburg Castle
Highlight • Castle
The memorial commemorates the Jewish men who spent the summer of 1942 in the Jewish labor camp "Vanenburg".
On the night of October 2, 1942, they were taken to Westerbork and deported from there to the extermination camps of Auschwitz and Sobibor.
The monument "Sarah" serves as a remembrance, reminder and admonition: What can you do to make the world better?
The monument was designed by Michel Kooij of Putten and created by Gerrit van Emous from Putten.
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Staverden Castle
Highlight • Castle
Tip by
De Essenburgh Castle
Highlight • Castle
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Groevenbeeklaan sand road
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
The path is a perfect hard crisp path, which turns into a hard forest path. It is therefore fine for all types of cyclists (including racing bikes) to cycle. However, keep an eye out for walkers and other cyclists who are likely to be strolling around slower than you.
Pay attention! You are legally allowed to cycle through this estate, but only on marked trails. These are usually the wide main paths, but this is not always clear. To avoid hassle, it is best to stick to the highlights that already exist.
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more castles around Ermelo.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Ermelo
Weekend hike in the east - In two days from station to station
Hiking through the vineyards – 20x tasting in Gelderland
In the middle of nature - 20 accessible routes in Gelderland
Discover Gelderland in a wheelchair – 7 tours through nature
Cycle back in time – 15 prehistoric routes in the Netherlands
Zuiderzeepad – hike around the IJsselmeer in 28 stages
The Great Keteleiland Adventure
Hiking around Ermelo
Cycling around Ermelo
Road Cycling Routes around Ermelo
Other adventures around Ermelo
Tips from the Community
The estate truly offers some beautiful spots, the villa being the most obvious. The gardens are also beautifully landscaped. Why they didn't highlight these spots, so well described by Silvo, instead of choosing the path that exists in virtually the same form for thousands of other kilometers remains a mystery.
1
0
The story of House Vanenburg begins in 1389, when the castle was granted to Wolf van Putten as a fief to the Abdinghof Abbey in Paderborn. For those interested in the history... see here: https://nl.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kasteel_De_Vanenburg
1
0
Beautiful manor house with great outbuildings and a very nice garden 👍😊
3
0
In 1929, "a natural spring was discovered in the garden of this estate, the healing water of which was marketed as Essenburgher Mineral Water. A chemical examination showed that the water contained radium, calcium, magnesium, sodium, sulphate and carbonate, a composition that is the same as that of the Sprudel spring in Karlsbad. The two wells that rise in a small pond have a constant temperature of 10 degrees. Shortly after the discovery, the spring still supplied 400 litres of water per hour, so that even the construction of a Kurhaus was considered. However, since the life force of the spring has diminished considerably, the mineral-rich water flows away unused" From 'Het Merckwaerdigste Meyn Bekend' part 3, page 92 (March 1966)
1
0
The castle has changed its appearance in many ways over the centuries. The current building dates from 1905 and was built by Herman Theodore s'Jacob, the scion of a noble family. His father Frederik Bernhard was mayor of Rotterdam and his grandfather was governor of the Dutch East Indies. The architecture goes back to older styles, but the interior still contains features of the Art Nouveau style that was popular at the time. The rest of the estate is still largely intact and the castle garden has also been restored with honor.
17
0
Staverden Castle has a rich history dating back to the Middle Ages. The current castle, partly built in 1853 and partly in 1905, is surrounded by a beautiful estate. The brasserie and brewery located on the estate are also nice. Good place to take a break!
3
0
Beautiful place in the woods and meadows
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the most notable castles to visit around Ermelo?
The Ermelo region in the Netherlands is home to several historical castles. Among the most popular are Staverden Castle, known for its brewery, brasserie, and beautifully restored gardens; Oldenaller Castle, an almost square castle from 1655 with a romantic, white-plastered design; and De Vanenburg Castle, which now functions as a hotel and restaurant and features a significant monument.
Are there family-friendly castles in the Ermelo area?
Yes, several castles around Ermelo are considered family-friendly. Staverden Castle, De Vanenburg Castle, Oldenaller Castle, and De Essenburgh Castle all offer experiences suitable for families, often including extensive grounds to explore.
Can I find places to eat or drink at the castles near Ermelo?
Absolutely. Staverden Castle features a brewery and a brasserie on its grounds, offering a wonderful place to enjoy a meal or coffee. De Vanenburg Castle and De Essenburgh Castle both operate as hotels with restaurants, providing dining options for visitors.
What kind of historical significance do the castles around Ermelo hold?
The castles in the Ermelo region are rich in history. Staverden Castle has a history dating back to the 12th century, with ancient burial mounds on its estate. Oldenaller Castle was built in 1655 and underwent significant modernization in the 19th century. De Vanenburg Castle hosts the "Sarah" monument, commemorating Jewish men interned there during WWII. De Essenburgh Castle, dating from 1652, was once known for a natural spring with mineral-rich water.
Are there opportunities for walking or hiking near these castles?
Yes, the area around Ermelo offers numerous walking and hiking opportunities. You can find various trails, including easy and moderate options, that allow you to explore the natural beauty surrounding the castles. For detailed routes, check out the Hiking around Ermelo guide, which includes routes like 'Hideout No. 3 – Forest House Drie loop from Ermelo'.
What about cycling routes around the castles?
The region is excellent for cycling. There are many routes that pass by or near the castles, allowing you to combine historical sightseeing with an active outdoor experience. The Cycling around Ermelo guide features routes such as 'Ermelo: heathland, castles and Romans' and 'Staverden Castle – De Hoop Corn Mill Garderen loop from Ermelo'.
Can I explore the gardens or estates of these castles?
Many castles in the Ermelo region boast beautiful gardens and extensive estates. Staverden Castle is particularly noted for its beautifully restored gardens and ancient burial mounds. Oldenaller Castle also features a lovely garden, including a vegetable garden and orchard, perfect for a stroll.
What natural features can I see near the castles?
The castles are often set within diverse natural landscapes. Near Staverden Castle, you can find forests and ancient burial mounds. The broader Ermelo region is characterized by heathlands and forests, offering scenic viewpoints and opportunities to enjoy nature alongside historical architecture.
Are there any unique features or attractions at the castles?
Staverden Castle is unique for having a brewery, De Uddelaer, and a brasserie within its grounds. De Vanenburg Castle features the poignant "Sarah" monument. De Essenburgh Castle was historically known for a natural spring discovered in its garden.
What do visitors enjoy most about the castles around Ermelo?
Visitors frequently appreciate the blend of historical architecture with natural beauty. Many enjoy the opportunity to walk through beautifully landscaped parks, explore the rich history of the estates, and take a break at the on-site cafes or restaurants. The komoot community has shared over 490 photos and given more than 1300 upvotes, highlighting the visual appeal and enjoyable experiences.
Is it possible to stay overnight at any of the castles?
Yes, some of the castles around Ermelo have been converted into accommodations. De Vanenburg Castle and De Essenburgh Castle both function as hotels, offering a unique opportunity to stay in a historic setting.
Are there any viewpoints near the castles for scenic photography?
Many castles, such as Staverden Castle and Oldenaller Castle, offer picturesque views, especially of their architecture reflected in surrounding ponds or within their landscaped parks. The estates themselves provide numerous scenic spots for photography, particularly when the light is right.
Most popular attractions around Ermelo
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Looking for the best castles somewhere else? Discover other guides around Ermelo:
